Stanley Cup odds and NHL season betting preview

Rangers, Penguins early favorites

LAS VEGAS -- The NHL season starts Saturday, and there are countless wagering opportunities in this shortened season.

It will pay off in the first few weeks of the season to find teams that have had numerous players competing in Europe and the AHL. The Philadelphia Flyers lead the way with 16 guys on their roster that were playing during the lockout.

Look for UNDERS to be prevalent in the first few weeks of the season, as players get back in game shape — and more importantly, get a feel for one another in game situations. Passing could be sloppy early.

Teams with quality backup goaltenders will also have an edge, as the compacted schedule will force backups into action. Teams playing three games in four nights, and four games in six nights will be common occurrences.

It will be interesting to see how Rick Nash fares in the Big Apple. The Rangers have arguably the best goalie in the game —Henrik Lundqvist — and now have a dominant performer up front, who had been buried in Columbus.

We'll also be closely monitoring Sidney Crosby's health. Here's hoping he can stay on the ice. The sad truth is he may be one good hit away from going back on the shelf for a very long time.

It's a time for hockey fans to celebrate. Hockey is, without a doubt, the best sport to wager on. The oddsmakers aren't that up on the game, and frankly, there are many situations that crop up that they can do very little about.

More Expert Analysis

As we enter Week 12 of the NHL season, the race for the 2014-15 Stanley Cup still has yet to significantly narrow. However, the latest odds posted at Westgate Las Vegas SuperBook indicate one exceptional favorite.

As we enter Week 6 of the NHL season, the race for the 2014-15 Stanley Cup remains open for the taking with no standout favorite, but odds posted in Las Vegas have seen more movement since the season opened.